Pregnancy Month by Month: 3 Months Pregnant

At three months pregnant, you’ll enter the second trimester, which is great news in more ways than one.

Common Pregnancy Symptoms at Three Months Pregnant

At three months pregnant, some of the pregnancy symptoms you might notice are pleasant and welcome, while others are quite challenging. Remember, while all of these symptoms are normal during pregnancy, you may not experience them all:

Increase in energy

Increase in vaginal discharge

Varicose veins

Spider veins

Dizziness

Frequent urination

Changes in skin pigmentation.

Three Months Pregnant: Changes Inside and Out

Foetal Development: During the third month of your pregnancy, your little one's genitals will start to form, and swallowing and sucking reflexes kick in. Sensory development continues, too: your little one will start to be able to hear muffled sounds from the outside world and the eyes will also be able to move.

Changes to Your Body: It's possible that you might start to project a small baby bump this month, although women start to show at different times. Your breasts might also swell. One of the pregnancy symptoms typical of three months pregnant is that as those bouts of nausea subside, they’re replaced by hunger. Remember to eat well, focusing on quality, not quantity. Some women experience skin pigment changes such as a dark line appearing on the abdomen, or dark patches on the face. Some pregnant women experience a pregnancy glow, so if this is you — enjoy.

Diet and Exercise in the Third Month of Pregnancy

Many women start to notice that their morning sickness subsides, and they feel a surge of energy. Take advantage of this energy boost by starting or continuing a healthy pregnancy exercise plan. If you're an exercise newbie, check in with your healthcare provider first, but exercises like prenatal yoga and swimming could be good, safe options.

It’s as important as ever to focus on a nutritious pregnancy diet, including regular, small meals of protein, vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. Stay hydrated with water, and stick to a maximum of 200 milligrams of caffeine per day. This is about two cups of coffee.

Your doctor can give you personalised dietary advice, but pregnant women should avoid fish with high levels of mercury, as well as alcohol, unpasteurised cheese and milk, processed meats, and raw eggs. Be sure to thoroughly rinse fruits and vegetables under drinking water before eating or preparing them.

Third Month of Pregnancy Quick List

Share your baby news: At three months pregnant, you might feel ready to share the news with family and friends. Think about who you want to tell, and how.

Make maternity leave plans: Start thinking about how to discuss maternity leave at your workplace. Research your options, and think about your preferences. Have a plan in place for when you talk about it with your employer.

Pregnancy exercise: With a boost in your energy, and before your tummy becomes very big, your second trimester is a great time to get moving. Speak to your doctor about safe and gentle exercise options that are suitable for you.

Bond with your bump: Your little one can hear muffled sounds such as the sound of your voice and your heartbeat, so start to bond with her by talking to and singing to your ‘bump’, or listening to your favourite music together.

Communicate with your husband: Pregnancy is a role and an experience that can be shared by both parents. Speak to your husband about ways in which he can help. This will help dad-to-be feel more involved, and will take some of the load off of you, the mum-to-be.